Board grants special exception for existing garage conversion on Maple Street

The Grand Prairie Zoning Board of Adjustments approved a special exception on Feb. 16 for an existing garage conversion at 1826 Maple Street, voting 9–0 to allow the conversion to remain as living area.

Planning staff said the garage conversion was completed by a previous owner without the required approvals and that the current owner has since submitted a building permit. Staff recommended approval, stating, “Staff does not object to ZBA26010003 as requested.”

Applicant representative Chase Nuzziard told the board he represents the property owner and said they purchased the house with the conversion already in place. He said the owner had been performing cosmetic work—painting and carpeting—when code enforcement notified them about the unpermitted conversion and that the owner has applied for the necessary permits.

Board members asked whether the structure is being used as living area (staff: yes, with bedrooms and a restroom) and whether the conversion included a kitchen (staff: no kitchen). Staff explained garage conversions require a special exception and building-permit review to verify health, safety and welfare items.

The board closed public comment and approved the special exception by voice vote, 9–0. Staff noted that the building-permit process and inspections remain necessary before final approval of construction or occupancy changes.